Why Does Sebastian Vettel Drive With No.5 on His F1 Car?

In 2014, Formula One brought in many changes to the sport. It introduced the new V-12 turbo-hybrid engines and also allowed drivers to choose their numbers for their cars. Going into the 2014 season, Sebastian Vettel was a reigning four-time F1 world champion.

He had won the driver’s title for 4 consecutive years from 2010 to 2013. So he chose number 1 for the 2014 season. But when he left Red Bull for Ferrari in 2015, the German chose the number 5. Everyone thought that he chose 5 because he was going for title no.5, but Vettel states a different reason for choosing the number.

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I drove it successfully in karting in 2001: Sebastian Vettel on choosing No. 5

As reported by Sport Bild (quotes via Grandprix247), there were speculations that Vettel had chosen no.5 before joining Ferrari to pay tribute to his hero, Michael Schumacher after his accident, but he had chosen this number before it occurred.

“I chose it because I was so successful in karts in 2001 with the number 5,” said Vettel.

“And I had it in 2010 when I became World Champion for the first time. Also, several other drivers have taken number 5 to the title, like Michael Schumacher and Nigel Mansell. said Vettel on his reason behind choosing number 5. [h/t GrandPrix247]

Read More: When he met Michael Schumacher

Can Seb win his fifth title with Aston Martin?

Although Vettel could not secure his fifth world title with Ferrari, he stated he will continue with the number for the rest of his career. Vettel has carried his number 5 to his new team Aston Martin for the 2021 season.

And if the early signs are any indication, it seems like Sebastian might just get his fifth title in coming years. Vettel has already secured a second-place finish with the team and gave another stellar performance in Monaco. He also finished second in Hungary before being disqualified.

The German is feeling rejuvenated in his new team and will want to cap off his career with his fifth title in Formula One.